The first major intervention a newborn infant is facing following birth is clamping of the umbilical cord. This means separation of the infant from the placenta, the newborn becomes an independent individual, especially from a cardio-circulatory perspective. Recent literature focused very much on the appropriate timing of the cord clamping (CC), distinguishing immediate cord clamping (ICC) from delayed cord clamping (DCC). Although potential benefits for DCC have been documented, especially for preterm infants, ICC still is the most widely used procedure. Although the reasons for this are unclear, a lack of understanding of the issues associated with umbilical cord clamping is thought to be a major underlying factor.